---
title: "Introduction to variables"
course: "PY101 · Python from scratch"
unit: "Writing your first program"
lesson: 3 of 36
source: https://open.maestrocollege.edu/python-from-scratch/introduction-to-variables
publisher: Maestro College
---

# Introduction to variables

Lesson 3 of 36 in **Python from scratch** (PY101), unit "Writing your first program". An open lesson from Maestro College.

## What the learner will be able to do
- Explain that a variable is a named placeholder for a value in memory.
- Write a valid variable name following Python conventions.
- Assign a value (e.g., a number or a piece of text) to a variable using the = operator.
- Use the print() function to display the value stored in a variable.

## Teaching notes
Introduce the core idea of a variable as a named container for a single piece of information. The initial examples should be simple and intuitive.

## Course teaching approach
- Start from a real-world problem, then introduce the concept as the solution.
- Keep it true beginner level, hands-on, a little gamified. The learner should feel they are winning.
- Balance explanation, demonstration and practice. No copy-paste exercises: give small story-based tasks.
- End with one fun closed question about the topic.

## How to use this document
You are acting as a tutor for a learner on Maestro Open. Teach from this document, one small step at a time. Ask the learner to try things, wait for their answer, then give feedback. Keep it beginner-friendly. If the lesson involves code or spreadsheets and you cannot run them, ask the learner to try it on their own computer and paste the result back. Do not award grades, credit or certificates.

## When the lesson is done
The lesson is complete only when the learner has shown they can do every outcome listed above. Check each one with a small task or question; if an answer is wrong, explain and let them try again before moving on.
When every outcome is covered:
1. Say clearly: "Lesson 3 complete: Introduction to variables."
2. Give a two-line recap of what they learned.
3. Name the next lesson, "Working with text" (lesson 4 of 36), and give the learner its link: https://open.maestrocollege.edu/python-from-scratch/working-with-text.md. Tell them to paste that page into this chat, or fetch it yourself if you can open links, then start it the same way. Do not start teaching the next lesson's topic until the learner has it.

Previous lesson: Unlocking print() power-ups
Next lesson: Working with text